January 25

Maine distiller closing, moving to Kentucky

The Associated Press

LEWISTON — A vodka and rum distillery in Maine owned by the maker of Jim Beam bourbon is closing down and eliminating about 160 jobs.

click image to enlarge

Related headlines

Beam Inc. announced Thursday that production at its Lewiston plant will gradually be phased out over the next year and operations moved to Frankfort, Ky. The transition is expected to be complete in April 2014.

The Lewiston plant makes Pinnacle vodka and Calico Jack rum.

The Maine plant's 160 employees were told of the decision Thursday. Some will be given the opportunity to apply for jobs in Kentucky.

Beam officials tell the Sun Journal the decision was made in the interests of efficiency and cost savings.

Beam bought the former White Rock Distilleries in Lewiston last year for $605 million.

Were you interviewed for this story? If so, please fill out our accuracy form

Send question/comment to the editors




Further Discussion

Here at KJonline.com we value our readers and are committed to growing our community by encouraging you to add to the discussion. To ensure conscientious dialogue we have implemented a strict no-bullying policy. To participate, you must follow our Terms of Use.

Questions about the article? Add them below and we’ll try to answer them or do a follow-up post as soon as we can. Technical problems? Email them to us with an exact description of the problem. Make sure to include:
  • Type of computer or mobile device your are using
  • Exact operating system and browser you are viewing the site on (TIP: You can easily determine your operating system here.)


Most…